Ida Grove council – Fluoride continues to be an issue

The Ida Grove City Council continued discussion Jan. 14 on whether or not a public vote could be held to determine if fluoride should be added to the city water supply.

At the council's Jan. 7 meeting, a difference of opinion arose regarding whether or not citizens can petition the council to conduct a special election regarding whether or not the city should add fluoride to the city water supply.

City Attorney Pete Goldsmith indicated an election can be held. An attorney for the Iowa League of Cities informed Mayor Devlun Whiteing that cities with a council/mayor form of government (like Ida Grove) cannont set special elections based on a citizen petition.

Upon further review, the League of Cities agreed with Goldsmith's opinion that an election can be held, but only under certain conditions.

See the full story in the Jan. 30 edition of the Ida County Courier or subscribe online for instant access.